weekend successful

I agree that the weekend can be very tricky.  I  was able to squeeze in my elliptical today.  I would actually like to report that I was successful with my whole week goal.  With my other weeks being a little thrown off with sick children, it was very pleasant having it go smoothly.   I would also like to report that I ordered a pedometer from amazon today.  Quite excited - by Wednesday I will be on with the count.  Mom - I'm glad you have arrived to our blog world.  This whole blog  is developing quite nicely.   I am inspired by everyone's success.  I think I can tell that even my small efforts done consistently is paying off and my body is feeling stronger.

welcome mommy!

I'm so excited that our little blog is growing with such quality members. It is interesting how we all have things that make it hard for us to exercise, but this support system has given us a little boost to push through the obsticles. Bonnie I'm so proud of you with your w.w. success. keep reporting and motivating us with your achievments. I can almost report a complete week. After this I'm marching upstairs to do my last 20 of the week on the elliptical. With Dane home on the weekends it is tempting to not do my night time exercising. But I have to remind myself it is only 30 min. and 24 or Lost can wait. have a good weekend everyone! Beth

Beth, cubed

I like the fact that nearly half the members of our blog write under the pen-name "Beth" -- so maybe some clarification is indeed in order! In any case, it's nice to 'see' you again, Barb/Mom/Bloggercizer #6 -- and Gladys, too.

My report is brief but virtuous: big gym workout Thursday night (my cardio endurance is defintely improving), walking yesterday, and pilates awaits today. Amy - scary about Christopher! I'm glad everyone (except for the car) is ok. Happy weekend to all!

Welcome mom and Gladys!!!

Just wanted to officially welcome mom. Maybe you should have a pen name because to some of us you're mom and to others Barbara. How would you like to be addressed on this blog? Well I"m of to the basement to exercise. I'm just going to do my "usual". I thought I should get it done first thing because it seems harder to do it on the weekends for some reason... Have a good weekend everyone! Amy

so excited !!!

hi, this is the real old lady speaking.....I am so excited to be invited to join a group that where I can report my exercising goals and major accomplishments. right off the bat let me make things clear. I don't have arthritis, scoliosis, sciatica, old basketball injuries, ankle injuries, etc, etc. I only have old age and an interesting friend called Gladys. Gladys is my bladder, but we never call her that because it makes it seem like I have a real problem. So feel free to occasionally ask her about her, but only by her Christian name.
My goal is to walk twice a day every day that Gladys is over at the neighbors. And if the air is too bad, or if Randy doesn't want to walk...... I will do the elliptical at least once a day.
Love reading your comments...... Mom.....Barbara.....

Crazy week!

From Amy:
I'm so glad I have this blog or I don't think I would have exercised at all this week! Bonnie - as you were calling me this morning I was sitting at the side of the road with Christopher having just gotten in an accident. He is fine and thankfully it wasn't his fault but as he says "his car is trashed". This is after him struggling all week with a concussion he got in BBall last week. Pretty much it's been a really stressful week. I have exercised though! I have met my goals so far and I noticed again that my pants feel looser around my middle. Probably from the stress. I still haven't bought my pedometer but am really excited about it after all of your reports. Should I try to buy a more expensive one that stays on? What do you pros recommend? Bonnie that's really great that you've lost more weight. Is your eating feeling hard or are you having good self control? Beth I'm still impressed with all of your crunches because! I can't do more than 80 and I'm really pooped! Kelly and Sarah way to go with your goals most especially the belly dancing again. I still wish we could download a short video of it.

Wed. and Thurs. report

Just reporting that I have done my elliptical and crunches for yesterday and today.   I am preparing my muscles for my belling dancing class tonight.  Hopefully it won't be as hard feeling as last week.  Good job Bonnie on the pounds lost.  That is great.   I agree that this blog has been great.  It has really kept me on my toes when otherwise I would have slacked.  Keep up the good work girls.

Hello muffins - I feel quite powerful, inciting this pedometer revolution! It's been a good thing for me, but mine keeps falling off, and it resets itself every time that happens, so I don't think I've gotten especially accurate counts. Still, I can tell from Beth's initial number that, on the mom vs. professor front, it's no contest: my job is WAY more sedentary! So I will have to be conscious of moving more whenever possible - a new mini-goal. No exercise on my ultra-packed Wednesday, as per usual, but I did go to WW and have some success to report: I'm now up to 7.4 lbs. The words of wisdom du jour were all about setting manageable goals, which made me think once again what a good thing this blog is -- thanks for starting it, Beth!

beth

Day three accomplished! Still can't find my pedometer though.

I am not very good and posting my accomplishments. I have been to Curves 3 days this week and shoveled snow for 2 days. I like the idea of the pedometer. I used to wear one all the time. I would like to get my water intake in this week. That will be my new goal. Good luck to all. Happy exercising.

felt a little tortured tonight.

fatigue is catching up with me tonight so everything felt a little harder. we had a chili and pie party tonight at church. Luckily I didn't have time to eat very much with getting the kids there food, holding crying Clayton. Evenings aren't his best. During the chaos my pedometer fell off. Someone handed it to me later in the evening. I'm still trying to figure out how she knew it was mine, cause she said she just found it on the floor. There was only 3000 steps on it, but I had only had it on for 3 hours. I must seem like the pedometer type or something. I'm curious to put it on first thing in the morning to see how many steps I take in a day basically just in my house doing mother jobs. I should leave it on during the night too. I could start measuring the degree of bad night depending on how many steps I took during the sleeping hours. Anyway the pedometer has added some addition excitement to my very predictable life. Oh and I must clarify my sit-up accomplishments because I'm feeling like you all are thinking that I'm doing 150 sit-ups straight in a row. The only way I can do that many is because I do 1/2 exercising the lower half of my stomach, then 25 on each side and 50 doing the upper half of my stomach. I also have to lay flat on my back and take breathers in-between girls. So overall I'm pretty pathetic but getting stronger. Oh and something that is just not fair is that Dane (hubby) just got his body fat measured. Before 3 weeks ago hardly ever exercised, ate whatever he wants and has 19% body fat. After 3 weeks of push-ups and sit-ups is totally ripped. I'm so sure!!! He's getting a six pack after 3 weeks. I could do what he is doing for years and still be sitting in blubber. I'm used to it really, and even okay with it, but it's still not fair.

tromp trot, trudge...

Hello muffins -- sounds like we are now a pedometrified bunch! That's great. I had some technical difficulties with mine, but I think my average over the last couple of days has been around 5500 steps (not counting my formal exercise). So I guess to start I'll aim for 7000 steps/day, and then take it up from there. I'll be curious to hear your counts! Meanwhile, I'm just back from the gym, where I did my 30 min. on the elliptical + weights + some crunches -- man, I am a long way from being able to do 125 of those! Even 50 proved tough. Good work all around -- keep on truckin'!

I'm in.

I got a pedometer today at walmart. Sounds fun. Also got a pilates dvd for variety.

tuesday goals accomplished

Just checking in that I did Curves and my 10 minute elliptical today.  Oh wait...I'm going to do my crunches right now so I can report that....OK I just did my crunches too.  I am going to get a pedometer too.  I did that a few years ago and it was interesting to see how much I walked  a day.  Hope you are all doing well.  Kelly where are you in blog world???    Hope everyone is having a successful day.

bloggin at midnight!

from Amy:
I don't know what my problem is but I'm not very sleepy tonight!! I'm sure I will be in the am! You girls are so inspiring! I did my exercise this morning but just did 80 crunches. Do you think all of our stomachs will be flat soon? hee hee ha ha. I must say I'm pretty excited about the pedometer. I'm going to buy one tomorrow. I'm going to head off to bed now. Happy exercising!

day one!

20 min. on the elliptical felt okay. I was worried it might be too much for the ol hip. I have to say adding 25 more sit-ups was a killer. I'll stick to it though. might have to keep it at 150 for a few weeks. I felt the same way after 50 situps on the first few days, but was surprised how quickly my stomach (not visually of course) responded after the pregnancy. I feel like I have something to suck in again. Before when I would try to suck my stomach in nothing would happen. I'm inspired that you are feeling a tiny difference in your clothes girls. don't think I do yet but I'll still be patient.

week goals

Hi everyone.  I am also going to stick with my regular goal of 3x's at Curves, 6x's for 10 minutes on my elliptical and 1x belly dancing class.  My back felt better last week so I am not going to rock the boat this week by adding anything crazy.    I did try doing some situps (being inspired by Beth) and I am even more impressed than before Beth that you can do 125!  My belly was burning at 50.  It is very obvious that I need to add that to my list.  I will do 50 every night.  

As for any tangible or felt progress....Since I am not a weigher I have no clue if this has caused any weight loss.    I do have to say that my clothes feel very (with an emphasis on very) slightly looser (is that how you spell that?) around my waist.    We must keep on!   Good luck everyone.  Let's have a good week.

new week, new goal -- any takers?

hello muffins -- and congratulations to all new aunts in the group! that's very exciting.

I have two goals this week. The first is the usual: to exercise five days, with two or three of those at the gym. For the second: I bought a pedometer over the weekend and am wearing it for the first time today. They say the goal is to walk 10,000 steps a day -- so today and tomorrow i'm going to track to see what's 'normal' for me, and then I'll set a goal something beyond my normal. Does anyone want to join me in the pedometer tracking? I bought mine at Target for $9, so it's a pretty minimal investment, and probably a good way to know how much incidental exercise we get.

I don't notice any big changes yet in fitness level or clothes -- but soon! Wednesday is WW day, so I don't have any losing update -- i will let you know, though. Meanwhile, be warm and fit and well!

New Week

Good reminder Beth for us to focus! My goal this week is 6 days of exercise. I'm going to try doing more time on my elliptical but no more resistance. Hopefully I can do this without any injuries! This week I'm going to try to THINK about what I'm eating and whether I'm really hungry or not. My clothes are fitting a little different. My waist and hips seem a little smaller but I think my thighs are definately NOT! What about you Beth? Bonnie, did you lose weight last week? Well Sarah just called so I'm off.

goal time!

Well I'm gearing up for a new week of fitness after a weekend of no exercise and eating. I sent Dane off for week 4 away from the family. Cried, ate a candy bar, and ready to set new goals.
Nothing to new this week:
20 min. elliptical or 30 min. walk
150 abdominal reps.
15 push-ups.
all 5x this week.
Lets go girls. Lets not lose any steam this week.
I would like to hear if anyone is noticing any changes in how they feel, or how their clothes feel after just a few weeks.

New member?

from Amy:
I almost forgot to blog because of the odd day I've had. Since we had a birth in the family today I feel proud to say I exercised at all!! Welcome little Engler! I did a whole 9 min. on the elliptical (not quite as impressive as Bonnie's 30), 80 crunches (thanks to Beth's motivation) and my usual arm weights and stretches. This day seems so long that it feel like it was yesterday! I have to say I'm enjoying watching Oprah while I exercise! I really haven't watched her for at least 10 years. I have a lot of catching up to do.
So I'm excited about the new member! Who could it be? Any guesses from the other authors? Be strong and keep exercising!!!!

mission accomplished!

for my friday routine I walked/ran not by choice instead of elliptical. The running part was out of my comfort zone right now. I had to run after a boy I was watching that wasn't yielding while riding his bike. I must clarify that I'm not actually doing sit-ups but crunches and bicycling. 125 real sit-ups a day would be impressive. I actually feel the bicycle style ab exercise is very hard and more effective than a crunchy. But I would love company in the abs routine. Looking forward to next week dears. And excited to introduce a very SPECIAL new member of our exclusive club!!!

gymboree

Hello, muffins! Thanks for the bellydance updates, Kelly and Sarah -- my gym has started offering those classes to, so apparently b.d. is becoming quite the phenomenon. And Amy, I like your suggestion that K & S provide some video of their class -- that is cruel and unusual but also very appealing! And, finally, Beth: I am both impressed and inspired by your situp scheme; that's an exercise I hate but could definitely use, so I'm going to try to incorporate 25/day for starters.

I'm just back from the gym (Saturday): 30 minutes on the elliptical plus some weights, including a new scheme I have to do some focused rehab on my ankle with a couple of different calf machines. So I'm happy about that, but in the interests of full disclosure must confess that I did not make it to the gym yesterday -- I opted for mental rather than physical health by taking in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" with a friend. For what it's worth, I'd recommend it: A-/B+.

I barley survived belly dancing. Amy you should join us next week. I have been at Curves every day this week except Monday. I have also started back up again with the elliptical and I do that for 10 min. I can't wait until the air cleans up so I can walk outside again. I am sure my partner in walking is not looking forward to the air cleaning up since I will be dragging her out with me.

Up and at 'em this morning

From Amy:
So I'm off to a better start today. I just got off my elliptical (7 min. resistance 1!). Pretty whimpy but I also did stretches, weights and situps. I'm sitting here icing my ankle just to play it safe. Beth I'm so impressed with your amount of situps - that's a lot. Sarah- I really wish you could have taken some good video of your b.dancing class - that would have been an inspiration to all of us. Maybe I really will join you next week!! Everyone have a good day and be strong!

thursday report

I did my elliptical today and all is well. Feeling a big difference in my core just from 125 situps a day.I'm excited to keep strengthening in that area. I'm sorry about your foot amy maybe your need to reevaluate your goals so you don't get discouraged. You can join me in my situps and pushups? I really wish I could do the belly dancing with sarah and kelly it sounds so different and fun. Welcome Kelly!!!

shaky wobbly legs

Reporting from the very tired land of the belly dancers.   That is such good exercise.  I think my back held up.  My legs feel so weak right now. It really is a fun way to exercise.   Hopefully Kelly will give us a report.  She was the star of the class.  Wiggling and a shaking!!!   I'm afraid I didn't do my 10 minutes on the elliptical today.  It was a busy day and I felt so tired the whole time so I didn't squeeze it in.  Good job Bonnie and Beth on your outside walks.  That sounds good for the winter mental state.  Don't get discouraged Amy...your foot will return to its previous state.  Just do what you can do.  I'm going to go take an epson salt bath.  

Winter Blues

From Amy:
This isn't exactly an inspirational post...I didn't do any exercise today! My foot is hurting occasionally and I'm thinking I might head back to the P.T. so see what's up. My day just got away from me. It seems like all of my kids (even the "biggest one") had lots of needs today so I guess that's my excuse. Good for you Bonnie and Beth for walking outside. Sarah, Kelly and I wouldn't dare - the air is sooooo bad!!! So I will commit to a better day tomorrow! I am also very excited for the bellydance report Sarah!!

Winter walking

It broke 30 degrees here today, so, inspired by Beth's recent walking, I did some myself. I know I said I'd go to the gym, but it was great to be outside -- and, since tomorrow it's back to the deep freeze here, I'll be back at the gym soon enough. Good work all -- and, Sarah, i'm still waiting for the bellydance report!

walked today again. love the fresh air. getting ready to do my 11:00pm push-ups and sit-ups. I even had to take pepto cause my stomach is gross tonight. dedication! Thanks for the advice and inspiration. still pondering my eating goals. Bonnie keep us posted on your W.W. progess. Congrats on 5lbs. That is wonderful.

Wow - twice in one day!

From Amy:
I just had to get back on because I was in such a self imposed hurry this morning. I did my exercise for the day. I don't think I even broke a sweat because my body is stronger than my ankle. I think I really may have to consider bellydancing, pilates or yoga. Bonnie - I think maybe you can count the exertion of being an English Professor as exercise on the days that you can't make it to the gym. J.K. that probably isn't the kind of motivational speaking you need. Seriously though - your hike to the train etc. sounds like serious exercise to me!!! Beth - don't give up!!!!!! It's hard when you're in your stressful world of babies to keep perspective. I just ate some sugar I shouldn't have and I think it's because I really skimped on lunch and it was handy. I need to concentrate on keeping myself nourished enough in the afternoon that I don't want to snack. Everyone BE STRONG!! P.S. Congrats Bonnie on your 5 lbs.

exercise, eating, and patience - o my!

Hello muffins! Radio silence from Chicago the last couple of days because I haven't squeezed in any exercise; I plan gym trips Thursday and Friday to stay on track with that goal, though. And, Amy: I think we should exploit our 40-and-fabulous status to reclaim stretching as exercise -- you know they say it's important as you age!

Re: Beth's question about eating -- maybe the core food thing is too restrictive, and you should make room to factor in at least a few things you actually want/crave? That way if you have the occasional m&m or cookie, it's planned into your approach and you don't feel like a loser for treating yourself? Just a thought. I'm certainly sympathetic to the want-results-fast thing -- I lost 5 lbs during my first weight watcher week and then zero this week, which is annoying since i was equally dedicated -- but eventually all of this good-for-the-body stuff, like exercise and moving more and eating healthily, will pay off. So: here's to persistence, muffins!

needing some eating support!

This blog has been really helped me to want to exercise, but I'm already starting to fall off the wagon with eating healthy. Why can't I do this? I do so many hard things throughout the day and exercise self control in many areas, but why can't I have self control with eating? I know I need to do this to achieve any real visual change which I'm needing since the birth. Maybe it's too soon? But I really wanted to do it now! Should I recommit for tomarrow or try a different approach? This is what i'm asking myself. Any words of wisdom muffins? maybe i'll go look at some chunky faced pictures of myself to get modivated.

I'm still here!!

From Amy:
I fell out of the blog world for a few days but I'm back. Welcome Kelly!!! I think I ignored the blog world because I had an ankle that was hurting and I was not exercising. I have revamped my plan a little. I am going to wear my ankle brace, stretch before and not do any extra resistance on my elliptical. I obviously should have been doing this all along! I am going to sign off and go do my "little" workout right now. You are all an inspiration to me!!!! Thanks for being my blogging sisters!

Yes did it too. Push-ups sure are hard these days. I also walked instead of elliptical. Was a nice brisk day outside. Amy are you still having problems?

Just reporting that I was able to do my 10 minutes on the elliptical today with a few leg and arm toners.    That sure does sound wimpy when that is all I do in one day.    My back is still not back to where it was before my wild day last week so I'm going slow and steady.   I'm hoping for a good session at Curves in the morning.   Amy....where are you in the blog world?   We haven't had an official report for awhile.  Sounds like the rest of you are doing well.  

Bloggercizers! Muffins!

Soon we'll have more nicknames than inches -- won't that be inspiring? Welcome, Kelly. Good news from the land of exercise today: I made it to the gym, and did 25 minutes on the elliptical and some weights. One of my goals for the week will be to get back to the gym at least twice more -- I can do the cardio stuff at home/on my own, but I'm not so good about doing weights apart from the gym. Love the bellydance class, Sarah! I had a student who got way into belly dancing a few years ago, and she became just about the most fit, taut, toned person I know -you'll have to report.

Welcome Kelly and ready for a new week

Hi Kelly...welcome to the blog.  Everyone, this is my friend and Curves workout partner that has joined us.  I've never introduced people via blog before - I guess that is how you do it.  

I am prepping myself for a new week.   Hoping for no sick children and no back pain to slow me down this week.  I did do my 10 minutes on my elliptical today.   I will have my same goal this week of 10 minutes/ 6x's for my elliptical and 3 times at Curves.  Kelly and I will also be starting our belly dancing class this Thursday so that is more good exercise.   I wish you all luck.  This is our 3rd week of  blogercising (do you like that word???) and I have definately exercised more with the blog than I would have without it.   We are doing it!

Thanks for the invite. I am starting out a failure...I did not go to Curves today. I went shopping instead.

By small and simple things great things will come to pass!

week 3 goals for Beth

Okay, I think the goal setting part is very important for me because I'm already feeling a little less modivated today. So I'm going to continue my 15min 5X's a week on the elliptical , 125 situps, 10 girls push-ups. I'm also going to eat core foods again m-f. Common girls. Lets keep moving.

Good job, muffins! I'll bet the blog will become even more useful once we start getting tempted to slack off, but it's plenty useful now: I cleaned off my elliptical and did 25 minutes before leaving for Michigan, in no small part so i could tell the sistahs i did it! Happy weekend to all.

beth

This will be short. I DID IT. SO HAPPY 2 WEEKS DOWN. I just wish I could see a difference in my body. Patience right?

Feeling better

Well girls, my back is feeling a little better today so I think I will be alright.  I did do my 10 minutes on the elliptical.  I'm afraid with sick children and my back flare-up my Curves goal is falling short this week.  I am not going to let it discourage me.  In the past, these type of frustrations have made me feel like it is not worth it to even try but with all the support I am feeling quite hopeful and determined to make it work.  I bet next week will be better.  It sounds like everyone is doing well.    I am very proud of all of us.  I hope everyone's ailments are on the mend.  Good luck Bonnie on your journey.  It sounds like yesterday was quite the adventure.  I agree with Beth, that was a 2 for 1.    Amy and Beth - I will see you on Sunday and I expect to see some new bulging muscles.

daily duty done

My dear muffins, greetings from the deep freeze! I'm recovered from yesterday's trek through the tundra, so I did my pilates dvd and some weights at home today. Tomorrow I re-try the Michigan trip, so the weekend may be exercise-free ... but since Beth said I should count yesterday's misadventure as double, I'm set. :)

Beth, I really like the whole visualization thing you mentioned the other day. I think having a concrete goal/image like that is really helpful -- I definitely did it after my ankle surgery and during the physical therapy that ensued this summer and fall, and I think having those images really adds something beyond just mechanically doing the work. Great idea!

Hope the aches and pains are diminishing and that everyone has a good weekend!

This is so good for me!!

From Amy:
I'm so glad I checked in. It's late enough (10:45) that I almost didn't. I was laughing so hard at everyone's comments I almost wet my pants. Bonnie - that sounds like an exhausting day!!!! I shouldn't have been laughing so hard when I read about it - you all know I mean well when I laugh at someone else's troubles!! Beth -still so impressive that you're eating well and exercising with all that you have to work with right now. Sarah- I was laughing pretty hard at your post too! Of course we're not old. I did my quota today - elliptical, hand weights and stretching. My ankle is still sore so I took it easy on the ell. but did the same amount of time. Gotta get to my bed. I'm so proud of all of you!!!

Beth

Another day down. I hope everyone is feeling better soon. Bonnie that is dreadful that you waited so long and walked so far. That should count as double. I wish I was a better designer for our blog. My knowledge is very limited. I spent a long time trying to get the words off the picture. We need to invite someone who know how to do all that stuff. But it's not that important. I hear we might be getting a new friend soon!

hey muffins

Well, my Utah friends, today I report my commuting exercise, with the added weight-workout of dragging a suitcase through the snow, up and over and around drifts -- I was supposed to take the train to Michigan to spend the weekend with a friend, but it is soooo cold here (10 below right now, real temperature) that signals aren't working and trains weren't running (though they didn't tell us this til we'd sat there for FOUR HOURS). So: more dragging of suitcase through the snow and more scaling of drifts just to be right back where I started!

Sorry to hear about the back (Sarah), the sciatica (Beth), and the ankle (Amy) -- I am noticing that after all the suitcase-dragging, my old basketball injury in my lower back is acting up a bit -- so I too can join the old-lady club! But at least we're not yet talking about arthritis, or total joint replacement, or any other wonders of aging -- that's how we can tell that, as Sarah says, we're in fact in our prime.

Beth, about your ww question: it appears that what they now call "filling foods" are essentially the core foods of old: fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean protein. So, they want you to count points, and they suggest that a good percentage of your points should come from the 'filling food' category. But really of course it's all kind of the same: eat healthy food and not too much of it!

OK ladies: good for you for marching on! And Beth, i see you've done some subtle redesign of the blog - nice!

Bonnie

that will keep me chuckling all day

I am really enjoying the 'muffin tops can exercise thing'....I was really needing a good laugh.  I am glad I checked in.  I did make it to curves this morning but only did 2 laps around instead of 3.  My back is still hurting so I really took it easy.  I'm not even sure it did any good to go but I thought it was better than nothing.  I am probably going to try my elliptical  today as well but do it very slowly.  

Beth - my friend Kelly would like to join us.  How does that work.  Does she have to get an official invite e-mail?

Keep up the good work girls.  We can stay strong through these setbacks.  It does kind of feel like our bodies are reacting like old ladies but that is all nonsense.  We are young and spry ...in the prime of our lives....right?

poor sarah

I don't want to be repetitive but have been limping today with my sciatica. It's like were all in our 70's or something. So I did my 15 min., but had to tone it down. My sit-ups felt good, and my eating went well. I discovered a yummy snack. Wheat puffs no milk with a little cinnamon and a touch of splenda or sugar. pretty much eating sweet air but helped my never-ending sweet tooth.
Bonnie, I would like to know how you like the momentum vs. flex. And just if you can touch on how "filling foods" fits into the points. For now I'm going to just keep eating core foods which is feeling really good. I'm not sure if I can go back to counting points for now anyway.
I did something interesting tonight when I was on the elliptical to pass the time. I closed my eyes and visualized strong firm legs and a flat stomach etc. and pretended that body already existed on me. This might sound really strange, but it felt healthy and almost healing in a way. I think or know that during the day I'm thinking too many negative thoughts about my body image. It just made me feel different in a good way. Sistas you should try it sometime. Oh and I thought of the best name if we do ever change the name of the blog. How bout muffintopscanexercise.blogspot.com. maybe thats too negative, but cute huh? Love ya'll. Beth
Sarah take it easy sorry your back went out.

OK so this is twice today!!!!

From Amy:
So girls you pretty much easily talked me out of the tape measure idea which is just fine since I wasn't too attached to anyway. I accomplished my goal today - but I too have some pain! I somehow over did with my resistance yesterday on my elliptical. I might have to take the day off tomorrow. This has to be so short because I still have kids awake but just wanted to check in. I absolutely love reading what you "sistahs" have to say - I chuckle the whole time. Good luck tomorrow.

A slight voice of warning...

My enthusiasm has found me sitting here with a heavy dose of ibuprphan in my system and a bag of frozen popcorn kernals on my low back .  (which by the way have found is the best replacement for ice - it's so comfortable.)  I think with changing the slant of my elliptical and increasing to 20 minutes was a bit much for my post car accident injury site.  I was getting so excited with all the possibilities that I over did it.  Amy also said her ankle hurt a bit so I think we need to pace ourselves!!  I did do my 10 min. elliptical goal today before my back bursted out in pain but I'm not sure I will make it tomorrow.

As for the tape measuring....I think if it works for you do it but I kind of agree with Bonnie that it would not be good for my mental health.    No scales or measures for me...I will just use how I feel and how my clothes fit.  Otherwise I get too  attached to a number.    Well good luck to everyone...don't go too wild.   

sistah-friends!

Well, I too have been chuckling about renaming the blog 'sistersinchristcanexercise' -- not sure why that tickles me so much, but it does. Suffice it to say i feel plenty welcomed and there's no need to change the name on my account; we can just think of it in the "sistah-friend" way.

For Beth: the thing I learned when I rejoined WW last week is that they've done away with Flex vs. Core, and now they just have one plan, called "Momentum." It looks to me like this new plan is essentially the flex plan, with a little extra attention given to what they call 'filling foods' -- essentially the core foods from the old plan. I never did do core -- my problem isn't so much eating junk as it is portion size, so Flex with its focus on weighing and measuring usually works better for me. That's not to say that, a la Sarah, I don't enjoy a peanut m&m once in a while -- but, you know, peanuts, protein, 'filling food' -- one can easily justify! But anyway: good for you for doing it on your own -- and doing it when you are living the sleep-deprived life of the new mother -- that is impressive!

For Amy: I respect your right to do the tape measure, but I'm not going there anytime soon! I'm happy to register changes in the way my clothes fit (not that this has happened yet), but for me there's something demoralizing about the tape measure. Plus it has shades of Toni Zarr, and that can't be entirely good.

On to exercise. My goal is to exercise five days/week, and I'm realizing that Wednesday may have to be one of my off days: I work 9-6 and then go to rehearsal from 7-10, and, since I simply will never be one of those "get-up-at-5:00a.m.-and-hit-the-gym" people, there's not much space in there. In better weather i could go for a walk downtown during the day, but in our current constant-blizzard state, Wednesday = day off. So, i will check in with reports of virtue tomorrow!

Two Days In A Row!!

From Amy:
I don't know why the last post posted prematurely! Anyway I'm back because it will only let me on if I go back through Beth's invitation to me - which is kind of a pain but gets me on!!!! I'm waiting for my neighbor to come over and excercise with me. Impressive I know but my ankle is a little sore today so I may not get as far as I want! Of course peanut m&m's are ok - that's what you taught me Sarah! Also (Sarah) I liked all of your name suggestions! Thanks Beth for all of your technical support over the last couple of days. Bonnie - are you excersizing today? Beth and I were talking this morning about the possibility of getting the tape measure out. What do you guys think about tape measures? I have been against them in the past but actually am thinking about it this morning. Well my neighbor is here so hope you girls have a great day.

Two Days In A Row!!

I'm smiling!

This blog is like a dream come true for me. It just gives me a little something to look forward to before bed. I love seeing your posts. Ha, ha I was joking about the sisters in Christ thing just was saying that we don't need to change the name because we are all sisters in Christ right? I'm open for a change but like the name even if friends join us. Glad your back Amy. I'll work on your problem tonight. Exercise was hard to fit in today but did it. I did my 15 minutes but feel my body capabilities increasing so I was able to go harder. I'm thrilled that Bonnie is doing Weight Watchers. I'm not official but have been doing the core plan for 2 days now. I really like it but feel hungry right now. I also had 2 cookies during my 3 hours of torture tonight. Clayton cried and fussed from 7-10 which is a hard time for the other kids too. So it's proof that I crave sugar very bad when I'm stressed. Bonnie, I'm wondering if your doing points or core? I need the accountablity because I can't go to meetings right now. So good night girls. xoxoxo

I'm glad your back Amy and more thoughts

Oh wow...I think that name is kind of weird.   We could call it - we can exercise...or....let's all exercise....or once we didn't and now we did...or..the exercising days of our lives.   Just some ideas.   To answer your question Bonnie - We all just picked what type of exercise we wanted to do and how much and we are all holding ourselves accountable to that.   I know for me I am starting out kind of gentle and hoping to evolve into something more. 

To report today - I did do my revised home goal.  It felt kind of hard today but I felt good when I was done.  I wish I could do some grand food program like Beth and Bonnie but my brain is still feeling kind of clogged on the subject.  I am trying to pay more attention to what I eat though.  I am concentrated on trying to get more nutrition by adding more whole grains and fruits and vegis.  I'm afraid I did have some peanut M&M's today but that is ok, right Amy?

That previous post was "Amy"

I was pretty sure you all knew who I was but I forgot to sign my name!!! :)

I think I'm back!!??!!

Beth re-invited me today and it seems to be working. Hopefully it will still work tomorrow. The absence has made me feel quite excited to be a blogger! I still don't see my name as a contributor so maybe I'm really not meant to be one though! I talked to Beth today and she suggested we change the name to "sisters in Christ can excercise" so Bonnie feels even more welcome! What do you girls think? (I'm really chuckling quite a bit about that right now). For what it's worth I have met my excercise goals so far and will continue with the same goal as last week. I have added another 3-4 minutes to my elliptical and do arm weights and stretches. Bonnie - I think slipping through the snow for 1.5 miles is REAL excercise. It would take me a few hours to take that walk in the snow right now. I am still walking like a 95 yr. old woman in the snow. Sarah- I think you should for sure count your "in house" excercise too. Beth - I'm impressed with your excercising and eating period!!!!!!! I think Beth and Bonnie can bond over weight watchers but I would definately be open to food goals. I've been trying to make sure I drink enough water and control my SUGAR!! Hopefully I can post tomorrow - Mya and I are going to cozy up with American Idol right now. Are you girls watching?????? P.S. No spell check for me!

background info

Hey exercisers -
I'm curious to get a little background info, on two topics:

First (and in the winter), do you exercise at home? at a gym? some combination?

Second, is anyone interested in expanding the blog focus to eating, too? I started a weight-watchers-at-work program last week, and while that has some built-in accountability, you can't have too much support when you're hungry enough to eat your own arm! So far it's actually been fine, but if you can't be jazzed about it during the first week, when can you be? it's the long term that i'm thinking about here.

My report du jour: I'm at work, and my commute involves walking to and from a couple of trains. This is about 1.5 miles total, and while normally i don't count this as "exercise," in the winter I'm going to, because it's super-snowy here so the walk involves lots of scrambling over drifts and slipping and sliding and trudging. So: I've walked a mile and a half today; I'm also going to do a half-hour pilates dvd at home this evening.

Rock on with your exercising selves!

Revised plan

I have decided that I do need a back up for when I am trapped with sick kids.  Josh is home again today so Curves is not happening again.    So on these type of days I will do 20 minutes on my elliptical and 10 minutes with weights/toners and I will call that equivalant to a Curves visit.  

Welcome Bonnie!

It is wonderful to have another supporter. It is amazing the motivation a little blog has given me. I did my goal today. The core eating plan was a little bit of a challenge. Got a little hungry, but I pulled through. I posted that I would do it mwf but I think I need to do it 5 days a week or I'll fall off. So wish me luck. My sit-ups made me realize that I have negative zero stomach muscles. 100 seemed like a good place to start though. I know it won't eliminate the apron but I heard that strong stomach muscles is like wearing a girdle. Helps hold everything in better. Was able to do my elliptical in the morning today. felt better than the evening. I am wondering where Amy is? Poor dear. Now that Bonnie is with us I find myself doing spell check.

Hi Bonnie...welcome to the exercise blog

We are glad you could join us.  As you can see we have only been at it a week but we all feel like it has a lot of potential for keeping us on task.

For today's report I would like to say that I have done 20 minutes on my elliptical instead of my goal of 10.  Josh was home sick today so I couldn't go to Curves.  That leaves a lot of pressure for the rest of the week.    It did feel really good to have a successful week last week so I'm going to try my best to repeat it.  Keep strong girls....keep strong....

a trial run

Hello exercisers! My goal for today is to exercise my fingers by making a trial blog post -- and, if that works out, I'll be encouraged to exercise my whole body, starting tomorrow......

Beth's goal for week 2.

I think I'll stick with my 5x15 min plan but add 100 crunches 5x a week as well. I am going to do Monday, wednesday, Friday core plan plus protein shakes and see how it feels. Wish me luck. Please join me if you can.

I miss amy. are you still struggling?

We are really doing it

It does feel good, doesn't it.  I hadn't done my 10 minutes until just a few minutes ago and I was so tired before I did it and I am actually a little energized afterwards.  I even did my 3 times at Curves this week.    I am quite proud of us.  

first week perfection!

5 days complete. feels good to complete a goal. I'm pondering next weeks goals. Thinking about adding some crunches, leg lifts, and a food goal. I loved having your support this week. If Amy keeps having trouble. I'll make a new blog that she can log onto.

4 down

one to go. 20 minutes tonight. multitasked exercising while doing homework with Lindsay. Worked really well. glad I could get it done before 8 tonight. love ya'll.

DID IT AGAIN!

Felt easier tonight to actually get on even though it was late. Starting to get into the routine. Thanks for the support!

close call but mission accomplished

Just reporting in that I did my elliptical requirement today.  It is amazing that 10 minutes can be so hard to do sometimes!   I missed curves so I am going to have to go tomorrow and Friday morning to be successful.  Let's hope for no sick children.  How did you girls do today?   Sarah

Beth and Amy join forces today!

Beth reports that Amy's elliptical is smooth as butter. Amy was trudging alongside Beth on the treadmill. We wish we could excercise with a sister everyday! We want to know what author Sarah thinks about whether to count extra minutes done towards the next days workout? Also be thinking about rewards at the end of this quest for the sister that excercises the most.

testing...testing

Is this how you do an official post?  If so, I am announcing that I'm going to go downstairs right now and do my elliptical for 10 minutes.  Here is my official goal.  Curves 3x's a week and elliptical 10 minutes a day/5 times a week.  Sarah

We are blogging and excercising!

I'm just checking to see if I'm really a blogger. Is this posting? Are you girls there? Love, A

day one!

amy and I both exercised today!!!
amy's goal 5x 20 min.
beth's goal 5x 15 min.